William Makepeace Thackeray

Date of Birth: July 18, 1811

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: December 24, 1863

Biography

William Makepeace Thackeray was an eminent English novelist of the 19th century, renowned primarily for his satirical works. Born in Calcutta, British India, Thackeray was sent to England for his education at a young age. He attended the Charterhouse School and later Trinity College, Cambridge, although he left without a degree. Thackeray initially pursued a career in law but soon redirected his efforts towards literature and journalism. His early works were published in various magazines, but he gained substantial recognition with the publication of “Vanity Fair” in 1847-1848. This novel, along with “Pendennis,” “The History of Henry Esmond,” and “The Newcomes,” solidified his reputation as a leading novelist of his time. Thackeray’s writing is characterized by its wit, irony, and keen observation of Victorian society. He often critiqued the folly and pretensions of his contemporaries, earning him both acclaim and controversy. Thackeray married Isabella Gethin Shawe in 1836, and they had three daughters. Tragically, Isabella suffered from severe mental health issues, leading to their separation. Thackeray devoted much of his later life to his daughters and his literary career. He passed away on December 24, 1863, leaving behind a legacy as one of the great novelists of the English literary canon.

5 Interesting Facts about William Makepeace Thackeray

1. Thackeray’s first significant work, “The Yellowplush Papers,” was published under the pseudonym Charles James Yellowplush.

2. He was a close friend and contemporary of Charles Dickens, although their relationship experienced strains over professional rivalries.

3. Thackeray illustrated some of his own works, showcasing his talent as an artist.

4. “Vanity Fair” was initially published as a serialized novel, which was a common practice at the time.

5. He ran unsuccessfully for Parliament in 1857, standing as a Liberal candidate for Oxford.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Makepeace Thackeray

1. “The world is a looking-glass, and gives back to every man the reflection of his own face.”

2. “To love and win is the best thing. To love and lose, the next best.”

3. “Good humor may be said to be one of the very best articles of dress one can wear in society.”

4. “Mother is the name for God in the lips and hearts of little children.”

5. “The two most engaging powers of an author are to make new things familiar, and familiar things new.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Thackeray’s highest net worth was estimated to be approximately £15,000 at the time of his death, which would be equivalent to several million pounds today when adjusted for inflation.

Children

Thackeray had three daughters with his wife, Isabella Gethin Shawe: 1. Anne Isabella Thackeray (1837–1919) – Known as a writer in her own right. 2. Jane Thackeray (1839–1840) – Died in infancy. 3. Harriet Marian Thackeray (1840–1875) – Married Sir Leslie Stephen, a notable literary figure.